What is normal variation in PT scores? Forum

[leche]

For the past two weeks I had been happily scoring in (and a few times above) my target range (167-173). I even topped at a 177, but didn't really count it because I didn't take it under the strict back to back 35 minute constraints.

Now I'm afraid I may have hit my peak. The last two tests I took dropped suddenly, with a 163 and 162. I can attribute the first bad score to being totally mentally preoccupied (a relative was having heart surgery that day), but I have no excuse for the second one. What is a normal range for taking PT's? I thought the 167-173 seemed about right, but has anyone else dropped 10 points and bounced back? Right now I'm feeling really demotivated and unsure of myself.

[yngblkgifted]

Relax. Maybe you are burning out? I'd take a day off. I wouldn't worry too much about two scores, you still have what 3 weeks or so? I dropped subtantially on a PT right before my actual exam (it was a fluke) and I ended up within my normal range on test day because I kept telling myself it was just an aberration. Most of this test is psychological. Expect to do well, use your past successes as motivation, and learn from any mistakes. You'll be fine.

[Corwin]

Seems like a good lesson in the importance of being mentally prepared in addition to intensive practice. Take a day off, go to the beach. Don't undo all the hard work you've done by psyching yourself out.

[leche]

I appreciate the advice, but I feel like I should add something...I discovered this time around (June will be my second crack at the LSAT) that taking breaks really, really helps me. Last time was definitely a case of burnout. So I generally only take 2-3 PT's a week, without touching LSAT books the other days. The "take a day off" advice has already been followed. I'm actually wondering if I should start doing more.

[gaud]

I'd have to agree with most of the other posters. I've had the occasional 'poor score' in my recent practices but have always been right back up at my average for the next test. Sleep seemed to be my issue.

[bp shinners]

I wouldn't be surprised if your confidence was shaken by the first low score because of personal issues, leading to the second low score. I'd spend a few days reviewing old PTs you took to calm yourself down and then take a new one. I'd be surprised if you didn't bounce back up to your normal range.